What is a small housing development?

A small housing development is a scheme of a few new homes, typically two to nine, on a single site. We work with landowners, small developers and investors to build schemes that already have planning permission, or help take a site through planning first.
How much does a small housing development cost in West Glamorgan?
In West Glamorgan, a small housing development typically costs £1,650–£2,500 per m² of floor area (build cost), including VAT at 0% (zero-rated for qualifying new dwellings). For a typical 400 m² project that is roughly £660,000–£1,000,000. Building costs in Wales run about 8% below the UK average, and the figures for West Glamorgan are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (280 m²) | £462,000–£700,000 |
| Typical project (400 m²) | £660,000–£1,000,000 |
| Larger project (560 m²) | £924,000–£1,400,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,650–£2,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Specification
- Roads, sewers and adoption agreements
- Planning conditions and obligations
- Number and size of homes
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a small housing development in West Glamorgan?
Approvals for a small housing development in West Glamorgan follow the rules for Wales. In Wales small schemes need full planning permission and, for most new buildings, sustainable drainage approval from the SuDS approval body. New homes must have sprinklers.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Handover packs for each home
- Pre-construction cost plan
- External works and landscaping
- House construction to building regulations
- Design development and discharge of conditions
- Utility connections
How long does it take?
Allow 12 to 24 months depending on scheme size. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 months.
Building in West Glamorgan
Terraced houses in Welsh towns often have narrow plots, which suits rear and side return extensions and rear dormers.
Towns we cover in West Glamorgan include Swansea, Neath, Gorseinon and Clydach.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about small housing developments in West Glamorgan
Do you build small housing developments in West Glamorgan?
Yes. We build small housing developments across West Glamorgan, including postcodes SA1, SA10, SA11, SA12 and SA13. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a small housing development cost in West Glamorgan?
In West Glamorgan, a small housing development typically costs £1,650–£2,500 per m² of floor area (build cost), including VAT at 0% (zero-rated for qualifying new dwellings). A typical 400 m² project comes to roughly £660,000–£1,000,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you work with landowners?
Yes. If you own land, with or without planning permission, we can discuss building on it with you.
Can you help with planning?
Yes. We coordinate the architect or designer and, where needed, a planning consultant.
Is VAT charged on new homes?
Construction of qualifying new dwellings is normally zero-rated for VAT.
Do I need planning permission for a small housing development in West Glamorgan?
In Wales small schemes need full planning permission and, for most new buildings, sustainable drainage approval from the SuDS approval body. New homes must have sprinklers.
